Electric vehicles used about 0.8 million tonnes of refined copper worldwide in 2025, roughly 3% of global demand of almost 28 million tonnes, according to the IEA’s Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2026. That is three times the 2021 level. Under today’s stated policies the IEA projects EV copper demand rising to about 1.8 million tonnes in 2030 and 3.0 million tonnes in 2040, still well below electricity networks.
Key Takeaways
- EVs used about 794 kt of copper in 2025, about 3% of demand (IEA).
- Under stated policies, EV demand reaches about 3 Mt by 2040.
- Electricity networks use far more copper than EVs.
- Chargers are a small slice, but cable prices track copper.
Copper Demand by Sector, 2021–2040
Figures are IEA estimates in thousand tonnes (kt) of refined copper, excluding direct use of scrap. EV demand covers batteries and motors. Projections use the Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS).
| Use | 2021 | 2025 | 2030 (STEPS) | 2040 (STEPS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric vehicles | 264 | 794 | 1,763 | 3,046 |
| Electricity networks | 4,189 | 4,544 | 5,713 | 6,631 |
| Solar PV | 707 | 1,970 | 2,222 | 2,219 |
| All clean energy | 5,654 | 8,003 | 10,725 | 13,073 |
| Total demand | 24,950 | 27,775 | 31,370 | 34,984 |
| EV share of total | about 1% | about 3% | about 6% | about 9% |
These are scenario projections, not forecasts. The IEA also publishes a Current Policies and a High Demand scenario with different numbers.
What the Numbers Say
- EVs are growing fastest: demand roughly tripled between 2021 and 2025.
- Grids remain the giant: electricity networks use more than five times as much copper as EVs today.
- Most copper is not for clean energy: about 71% of 2025 demand went to construction, industry and other uses.
- Recycling will grow: the IEA notes that EVs and storage are the fastest-growing source of end-of-life copper scrap.
Per vehicle, the IEA says the value of materials in a battery electric car is up to 60% higher than in an engine car, mainly because of critical mineral content.
Where Charging Infrastructure Fits
The IEA’s EV line covers vehicle batteries and motors, not chargers. Charging equipment and its supply wiring are part of a much wider electrical demand that also feeds grids and buildings. A typical AC charger cable holds a kilogram or two of copper, as our guides explain; the different charging cable types and the supply wire size both shape that. In short, chargers are a small slice of copper demand, but their prices still feel copper market moves through the cable.
What It Means for Charger Importers
Growing EV and grid demand is one reason copper has stayed in focus, and it explains why cable specifications appear in more purchase negotiations. Our guide to OEM charger unit cost drivers shows where materials fit among other costs. EVDANCE, a Shenzhen factory exporting to more than 30 countries, quotes cable specifications openly. Explore the full product range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What share of copper goes into electric vehicles?
About 3% of global refined copper demand in 2025, per the IEA, rising to around 9% by 2040 under stated policies.
Do EVs use more copper than power grids?
No. Electricity networks used about 4.5 million tonnes in 2025, versus about 0.8 million tonnes for EVs.
Does the IEA figure include charging stations?
No. The EV figure covers vehicle batteries and motors. Chargers and wiring are counted elsewhere.
Related Reading
- Are All EV Charging Cables the Same?
- What Size Wire Do You Need for an EV Charger?
- What Drives the Unit Cost of an OEM EV Charger
- How Distributors Can Build a Profitable EV Charger Product Line
